The Devil Made Him Do It

[This article originally appeared on September 28, 2005 at InsiderRacingNews.com]


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The Date: January 20, 2004


The Location: NASCAR CEO Brian France's bedroom


The Scene: Mr. France, asleep but restless, is anxious about a major announcement being made first thing in the morning.


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Brian France (dreaming): Well, tomorrow's the big day. I'm announcing the new Chase for the Championship points system. This is my biggest decision since taking over as CEO. I hope I'm doing the right thing.


(A miniature Brian France appears on his right shoulder, dressed as an angel).


Angel France: You know, Brian, maybe you are acting too soon. After all, you've only been CEO of NASCAR for a few months. You know what they say, "Discretion is the better part of valor." Are you sure you wouldn't like to think about this a little more - maybe talk it over with the drivers, sponsors and team owners? Meet with some fans to get their input?


(Another miniature France appears on his left shoulder, dressed as a devil).


Devil France: Lighten up, Brian. The new points system is pure genius! It will create drama like never before. You don't want another boring season like last year, do you?


Brian France (sounding unsure): Well, I didn't think it was that boring. NASCAR is the most exciting sport on earth!


Devil France: Brian, baby! Matt Kenseth as '03 champion? B-o-r-i-n-g! The guy wins one race all season and still gets the title based on (rolls eyes) - consistency! That's not what racing is all about! Ryan Newman had eight wins last season - eight - and finished in (sneering) 6th place!


Brian France: Well, that's true …